18” Japanese Hagoita Paddle Geisha in Kimono Traditional Good Fortune

Preowned; GUC. Light spotting on handles Appx 18” x 6.5” In Japan, a decorative wooden paddle called "Oshi-e Hagoita" is given as a gift for a newborn girl to wish for the healthy growth of the child. The paddle is believed to swat away evil spirits. It has been used since ancient times as an item of good fortune and for celebration. An ancient document called "Kanban O-nikki" from the Muromachi preiod describes Hanetsuki being played within the Imperial Court. It mentions nobles and ladies of the Imperial Court playing the game, with the losing team made to treat sake to everyone. Hagoita, which are the wooden paddles used in the game, took on an additional meaning from the Sengoku Period (or Warring States period from mid-15th to early 17th century) when it was believed that the paddles have the power to repel evil spirits. In the Edo Period (1603-1868), people gave Hagoitas at year-end as gifts to wish for good fortune in the coming year. The custom of giving Hagoita as a gift to a newborn girl in the first New Year after her birth still exists today.